Addressing Glycerol Concerns
Slush and Glycerol in Ireland: What You Need to Know
In 2024, the Food Safety Authority of Ireland (FSAI) updated its voluntary guidelines for the industry, advising that children aged 4 and under should limit their intake of glycerol-based slush drinks.
At Dairyglen, we acknowledge there is an important conversation to be had around responsible glycerol consumption in young children and the industry’s responsibility to respond appropriately.
That is exactly why we acted early.
In response to this advice in 2024, Dairyglen listened and acted by providing retailers with a Glycerol Free Slushy Jacks range. Slushy Jacks Reduced Sugar is glycerol free and suitable for all ages. This means that our retailers have peace of mind, serving slush that is safe for all ages, and consumers could enjoy the same quality Slushy Jacks they know and love.
At Dairyglen, we take the wellbeing of consumers very seriously. Providing consumers with safe and tasty treats has always been at the forefront of what we do. Look out for the Glycerol Free sticker on our Slushy Jacks machines which ensures the product is safe for all ages.
We hope everyone enjoys our range of Slushy Jacks responsibly.
What has the FSAI Advised Regarding Glycerol?
In response to a new risk assessment (May 2026) by the European Food Safety Authority, the FSAI have updated voluntary guidelines for the industry, now recommending that children aged 10 and under should limit consumption of glycerol-containing slush ice drinks.
This is an update from earlier guidance that had only covered children aged four and under.
What is Glycerol?
Glycerol (E 422) is an EU-approved additive. It is used in slush ice drinks as a substitute or partial substitute for sugar. It helps maintain the slushy texture by preventing the liquid from freezing solid.
Glycerol is found in many common products such as chewing gum, baked goods, and cough syrups. It’s generally considered not harmful, however there are concerns about its effects on young children when consumed in large quantities.
Think of it as similar to additives used in “zero” and sugar-free soft drinks.
Is Glycerol Safe to Consume?
Yes, glycerol is recognised in the European Union as being safe for consumption by the general population when used in appropriate amounts.
However, because children aged ten and under have a lower body weight, if they consume excess levels of glycerol, some children can experience side effects, such as headaches, nausea and vomiting.
Does Slushy Jacks contain Glycerol?
Since 2026, Dairyglen has focused on Slushy Jack’s reduced sugar, glycerol free range, ensuring compliance with recommended FSAI guidelines. We are currently in the process of transitioning our Slushy Jack’s customers to glycerol free reduced sugar Slushy Jack’s.
If you’re shopping for our Slushy Jacks range, you’ll see the Glycerol Free option marked with a sticker stating ‘glycerol free’ in retailer signage and displays.
We acknowledge that some customers may be using previous Slushy Jack’s products which contain glycerol. Our customers will be provided with additional signage in line with the FSAI’s voluntary guidelines, so that consumers can make informed decisions.
We hope that everyone enjoys Slushy Jacks responsibly.
For more information, please see visit https://www.fsai.ie/